In Memory

Robert A. Doten - Class Of 1965

Robert Alan Doten

1LT - O2 - Army - Reserve - USARV

Bob began his tour on November 10, 1970 and died in the service of his country January 4, 1971 in Phu Yen, South Vietnam.

Panel 05W - Line 25    The Vietnam Veterans Memorial



 
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05/25/13 09:40 AM #1    

James 'Jim' Clark (1966)

I met Bob when I was 10, and we were on the same Little League team. I could tell that he was a good guy. His dad was our manager. As Memorial Day approaches, the Vietnam veterans of South Pasadena High School salute Bob and the rest of our fallen schoolmates. RIP, Bob.

Jim Clark '66


05/26/13 11:44 PM #2    

James Gertmenian (1965)

Bob and I met in first grade at El Centro School, and we immediately became best friends.   His family lived just down the street (Columbia Street) from mine, and we were in Indian Guides, Cub Scouts, and Boy Scouts together.  He was a bright, sunny person, and a loyal friend.  I was never happier than when I was with him.  His family moved from South Pasadena to Dover, Massachusetts just before our Senior year, and we corresponded - though not frequently - after that.   Bob went to Bucknell, was in ROTC, and after college graduation went to Vietnama where he lost his life on January 4, 1971.   I think about him every March 13, which was his birthday.   And, of course, on Memorial Day.   I still miss him.  


11/15/19 06:22 PM #3    

Marit 'Connie' Smith (Federcell) (1966)

"And, I always thought that I'd see you again."  


11/16/19 10:32 AM #4    

James L Ward III (1966)

One year after losing my friend and fellow Troop 366 scout member, Robert Doten, my ship, the USS Mobile LKA-115, could be found plying the waters for weeks at a time off the coast of VietNam awaiting orders to land our 300 Marines in combat. Those orders never came. We were so fortunate that our many days spent in "General Quarters" battle ready did not produce any casualities. Our safe homecoming to San Diego later that year was the greatest day of my life. I visited The Wall many years later - one of the most bitter-sweet moments of my life. I placed my trembling hand on my friend and fellow vet, Bob's name etched thereon, and I wept openly, at length, and without shame. I shall never forget him. Why must it be that war always takes the lives of our very best and brightest, like Bobby Doten? I shall never forget the many joyous days we shared together out on the track and on the trails of our youth.


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